How to Plan a Winning Basketball Fundraiser

Thinking of using a basketball game to raise money for your church, school, or local charity? You’re not alone. A basketball fundraiser combines sport, community spirit, and a clear purpose, making it a magnet for donors and volunteers. Below you’ll find a straight‑forward roadmap that takes you from the first idea to a full‑blown event that actually brings in cash.

Pick the Right Format

The simplest option is a charity scrimmage: two teams—maybe a youth squad versus a local business crew—play a friendly game and collect tickets at the gate. If you have a larger crowd, consider a tournament with multiple teams, a 3‑on‑3 blitz, or a half‑court shoot‑out competition. Each format has its own perks. A single game needs less planning, while a tournament can draw more participants and offer more ticket sales.

Set Up the Money‑Making Pieces

Ticket sales are the core, but don’t stop there. Offer sponsorship spots for local businesses—think banners, team jerseys, or a halftime announcement. Sell food and drinks, run a raffle, and add a donation box at the score table. Keep pricing simple: $5 for kids, $10 for adults, and a $20 family pass. Make sure every revenue stream is clearly marked so volunteers know where to collect cash.

Next, lock down a venue. A school gym, church hall, or community center usually has the court and seating you need. Reserve the space well in advance and ask if they can waive the rental fee in exchange for publicity. A free venue instantly lifts your profit margin.

Now gather volunteers. You’ll need a game coordinator, ticket takers, a cash handler, and people to run the concessions. Assign clear roles and give each volunteer a short checklist. When everyone knows what to do, the event runs smoother and you avoid last‑minute chaos.

Promotion is where the magic happens. Post flyers in local shops, share the event on social media, and ask participating teams to invite friends and family. Highlight the cause you’re supporting—people give more when they see a concrete impact. Use a catchy hashtag like #HoopsForHope to track buzz.

On the day of the game, keep the energy high. Play upbeat music, announce fun facts about the charity, and give a shout‑out to sponsors during halftime. A quick thank‑you speech at the end reinforces the good feeling and encourages repeat donations.

Afterward, tally the money, thank sponsors, and send a follow‑up email showing how the funds will be used. Sharing results builds trust and makes donors more likely to join the next event.

Running a basketball fundraiser doesn’t have to be complicated. Choose a format that fits your group, line up simple revenue streams, secure a venue, rally volunteers, and promote with a clear message. Follow these steps, and you’ll turn a fun game into a solid source of support for your cause.

Free Throw Fundraiser: How to Host a Slam Dunk Basketball Charity Event

Free Throw Fundraiser: How to Host a Slam Dunk Basketball Charity Event

  • Jul, 28 2025
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Discover how to host a free throw fundraiser, from planning and promotion to game-day excitement. Make your basketball charity event a community slam dunk.

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